France extended its temporary restriction of formamide in toy puzzle mats. The new law took effect in December 2016.

In 2011, France restricted formamide in toy puzzle mats on an interim basis. This temporary restriction was extended in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 [1]; each for a period of one year.

In December 2016, France published Decree of December 9, 2016 [2], in the Official Gazette of the French Republic (Journal Officiel de la République Française, JORF) to extend its interim restriction of formamide in toy puzzle mats until May 23, 2017. The limit of no more than 200 mg/kg remains unchanged. This restriction of formamide in toy puzzle mats will, in effect, be restricted by the European Toy Safety Directive from May 24, 2017.

In November 2015, we [3] informed you that the European Union published Directive (EU) 2015/2115 to restrict formamide in foam-containing toys for children under three and other toys that can be placed in the mouth. This amendment to Appendix C under Annex II of Directive 2009/48/EU, the so-called Toy Safety Directive (TSD), will become effective on May 24, 2017. This piece of EU-wide legislation also allows formamide emission using defined methods as an alternative.

The TSD restricting formamide in foam-containing toys for children under three and other toys that can be placed in the mouth will become effective on May 24, 2017

Throughout our global network, SGS offers consultation and comprehensive testing services (physical/mechanical, chemical, flammability, electrical safety, etc.) covering the full spectrum of international product safety and regulatory standards for a wide range of toys. Our laboratories are internationally recognized by major industry associations, accreditation bodies and authorities. With the largest global network of toy experts and testing facilities around the world (including 3 EU Notified Bodies and about 40 CPSC-Accepted Testing Laboratories), SGS is the partner to trust. Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information or http://www.sgs.com/toys.